$Unique_ID{BRK00022}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{A New Medicine for Pain from Shingles}
$Subject{shingles treatment pain Infections Infection Medicine herpes zoster
Capsaicin topical neuropeptide skin lesions shingle lesion rash rashes nerve
nerves}
$Volume{A-20, F-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


A New Medicine for Pain from Shingles


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QUESTION:  Can you tell me anything about a new medicine for pain from
shingles?

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ANSWER:  This is a very timely question, considering that the FDA recently
approved a new drug for treating herpes zoster infection, or shingles, as it
is more commonly known.  The drug, Capsaicin, is a topical neuropeptide agent
which can provide temporary relief from pain caused by the infection.  It is
available in cream form and should be applied to affected areas three to four
times a day once the open skin lesions have healed.  It is important to note,
however, that this drug should not be applied to broken or irritated skin.
Patients using the drug may initially experience some minor discomforts such
as burning, stinging, or redness of the skin, but with repeated use of the
drug, these reactions usually subside within a couple of days.  In clinical
trials, Capsaicin provided substantial pain relief after four weeks of
treatment for three-quarters of all the patients tested--an encouraging
statistic for people suffering from the acute nerve pain associated with
shingles.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.